Communities around the world are experiencing overlapping crises. With global demonstrations over racial injustice and the ongoing pandemic disproportionately impacting communities of color, it is imperative now more than ever that the foundation is laid for an inclusive recovery that unlocks opportunity for more people. Blue Sky Institute invites the Boise State community to its sixth annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Summit, which will take place virtually from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20.
This year’s theme is “build empathy, take action, ignite change.” Registration is open until Oct. 6. Interested students, faculty and staff are encouraged to register now. The entry fee is $10 for any Idaho student, faculty or staff member, and $35 for general admission tickets.
“I wanted to walk away feeling inspired, empowered and with more tools in my pocket than I had before,” a 2019 attendee said via an anonymous survey. “And I received all of that in an unexpected way. It was a great summit!”
The complete agenda will be available prior to the summit. Sessions in the morning will center around how to gain skills in building empathy. In partnership with local production company Story Story Night, the summit will feature members of the community to share their experiences, stories and insights in a virtual creative storytelling approach.
“We’ve intentionally designed this year’s experience to provide attendees with the skills and strategies to move the needle and create change in their life, work, school and community,” said Kodi Romero, Blue Sky Institute program manager.
Numerous breakout sessions focusing on taking action and ranging from cultural competency, inclusive cultures, activism, accessibility and more also will be offered. All breakout sessions will provide attendees with tools, strategies, resources and more that can be implemented immediately. The summit will conclude with a panel discussion featuring local change leaders.
“The work around DEI requires a collaborative effort to make a collective impact, and it is up to all of us to enact the change we are seeking,” Romero said. “What excites me most about this year’s summit is the broad range of support and contribution. It is really a call to action from our community, business leaders and academic leaders.”
This year’s DEI Summit is made possible by generous sponsors including St. Luke’s, Micron, Idaho Power, Chobani and many others listed on the DEI summit webpage.